Retros We'd Like to See for the Nike Air Max 90's 30th Anniversary
Nobody throws an anniversary bash quite like Nike, and one of their most honoured stalwarts is celebrating the big three-oh in 2020: the Air Max 90.
Simply put, the Air Max 90 is an era-defining sneaker, blessed with a timeless retro flair and a multilayered exterior that lends itself to imaginative interpretations. Originally designed by Tinker Hatfield for pavement pounding, the model has since prospered into an all-time silhouette – and a staple pair among avid sneakerheads and casual crep consumers alike.
We’re assuming a massive anniversary celebration is cooking up in Beaverton, and we’ve even had an early taste of the what’s to come. However, if the design team is struggling for inspiration, they needn’t look any further. Here are the Air Max 90 retros we want to see in 2020.
Laser Blue
We last saw the 'Laser Blue' AM90 hit shelves in 2010 – wouldn't it be great to see this one back a decade on? It's a big 'yes' from us.
Seahawks
The Seattle Seahawks have had their fair share of killer colourways throughout the years, but this AM90 from '06 is without a doubt one of the best (and most rare) of the bunch.
Bacon
A Grail pair for many an Air Max collector, the 'Bacon' AM90 has never been re-released since its debut in 2004.
Mowabb
The Air Mowabb/ACG-inspired scheme has always been one of the most popular in Nike's arsenal, thankfully used sparingly throughout the years.
Silver Surfer
Criminally underrated, this AM90 had a lot of its shine taken away by the Nike SB Dunk Low 'Silver Surfer', which released around the same time. We'd love to see it given another run!
Sunburst
A JD Sports–exclusive from 2008, an AM90 'Sunburst' re-release would made a perfect Independence Day drop. Take notes, Nike.
Sertig
Inspired by the Nike Terra Sertig trail shoe, the AM90 reminds us a lot of the famed ‘Raygun’ colourway.
,Crepe
Part of the special edition ‘Crepe’ pack, this sneaker is much-loved for its classic vibe achieved with a hemp upper and gum outsole.
KAWS
KAWS’ collaborative Air Max 90 in black is one of most expensive Air Max colourways of all time. That said, we think the white version is a way cleaner, more wearable option.
Tiger Camo
Iconic Japanese retailer atmos were the first to release this fierce AM90 back in 2013, and we’re feline good about a comeback.
'Clerks' by size?
Paying homage to London’s Brighton Beach, this colourway by UK retailer size? features a luxurious soft suede and croc-skin upper.
Reverse Infrared
The 'Reverse Infrared' has appeared on shelves in a number of incarnations over the years, but this version with the black mudguard from 2012 is our favourite of the bunch.
Infrared
The Air Max 90 ‘Infrared’ kicked off the arguably the greatest decade in sneakers ever! Of all of Nike’s classics, it remains one of most recognisable and most ubiquitous among sneakerheads’ collections across the globe.
We’ve seen plenty of retros across the years, with the last rendition hitting shelves back in 2015. However, after a five year wait, there’s no doubt both the OG air aficionados and the new brigade will be looking to light up their rotations with some ‘Infrared’ come 2020.
Header image via j.kjerulff